SRM can leverage storage array-based replication like PowerFlex asynchronous replication technology to protect virtual machines in a vSphere environment. The interaction between SRM and the storage array is governed through a well-defined specification. The VMware specification is implemented by the storage vendor as a lightweight application referred to as the Storage Replication Adapter (SRA).

The PowerFlex SRA allows SRM to automate storage-based replication operations, using PowerFlex as the storage replication engine, to implement disaster recovery between replicating PowerFlex systems. The PowerFlex SRA supports SRM functions such as test, run, and re-protect recovery plans.

Support for the PowerFlex SRA is introduced with PowerFlex 3.6 release. However, the SRA is compatible with PowerFlex version 3.5.1 or later. PowerFlex offers SRA for the Photon OS-based SRM appliances only. You can download the PowerFlex SRA from the VMware website. See the VMware Compatibility Guide to determine PowerFlex SRA compatibility with SRM versions.

Table 2.              Minimum supported versions